Overview
Storytelling. Production. Performance. These skills are in demand to produce, host, program, and manage the growing amount of content in today’s digital world.
Businesses of all kinds need to tell interesting, engaging, and effective stories to attract customers. These stories are presented via online and mobile content, podcasts, videos, commercials, news and sports coverage, media and public relations, and sales and marketing for all forms of media, whether it’s radio, television, or online.
To give you the real-world skills and experience you need, BCIT has developed this intensive, job-focused, two-year program. You’ll get invaluable hands-on experience with two practicums and work at the Evolution Podcast Network on SoundCloud, Evolution Video Network on YouTube and Vancouver’s only Modern Adult Album Alternative/Indie Rock radio station, Evolution 107.9 FM.
About the program
- Two years, full-time
- Courses from September to May
- 90% of grads find work in a related industry within three months of graduating
Learn more about why BCIT’s program has one of the best reputations in the industry on the Program Details page.
Work integrated learning
Every full-time diploma program has a practicum component where students spend time with an industry partner (TV and radio stations; production, sports and entertainment companies, plus marketing, media relations, and more). Practicums are typically five weeks long.
Students can also enter co-op in level four.
Who should apply for the BCIT Radio Arts and Entertainment Diploma?
If you’re interested in a unique career in media, including audio and video performance and production, social media, and online content creation, this program is for you.
You’ll be successful in this program and career if you are:
- Flexible and a savvy problem solver
- Creative and work well in groups
- Energetic and outgoing
- People-smart and self-motivated
If you’re excited for a career in media, start your journey today by applying on our Entrance Requirements page.
Your experience matters
Do you already have some experience working in storytelling, audio and video production or media performance? Or have some post-secondary course work in media? You might qualify for advanced placement to help speed your education and entry into your new career in media.
What grads can do
With so much practical experience throughout the program, BCIT graduates are prepared with the knowledge and skills required to launch into a career in many different facets of media performance, production, and storytelling. In fact, 90% of graduates find work within a related industry within three months of graduation.
Learn more about the career opportunities awaiting you on our Graduating and Jobs page.
Entrance Requirements
Students with part-time employment require flexible hours to accommodate the work schedule of this program. The Radio Arts and Entertainment program always receives more applications than available seats, so apply early.
Application processing
Open to applications beginning October 1st (or next business day).
Entrance requirements
Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and will be accepted on a first qualified basis as long as space remains.
- English: two years of education in English in an English-speaking country with one of the following:
- English Studies 12 (67%) or
- English First Peoples 12 (67%) or
- Acceptable equivalent high school course or
- 3.0 credits of post-secondary English, humanities or social sciences (67%) from a recognized institution
Recommended for success
Attend an information session, held each month of the school year at 5:30 pm in the Broadcast Centre, Building SE10 on the Burnaby campus.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Previous studies in fine arts, media, business, communications, and other humanities, as well as an awareness of current events.
Completed BCIT Broadcast Communications Part-time Studies courses.
Proficiency in social media and applied computer skills.
Experience in broadcast or digital media, social media, marketing, public relations, sales, online writing, or sports teams and organizations.
International applicants
This program is available to international applicants. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.
Students enrolled in this program must complete the mandatory work component to qualify for graduation. A co-op work permit is required prior to starting the work component.
Apply to program
To submit your application:
- Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
- Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
- Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.
Apply Now
Scheduled Intakes
September each year.
myCommunication
Within two business days of submitting your completed application, BCIT will send a message to your personal and myBCIT e-mail addresses. All correspondence regarding your application will be posted to your online myCommunication account at my.bcit.ca. We'll send you an e-mail when a new message is posted. It's important to watch for these e-mails or regularly check your account online.
You can expect to receive communication concerning the status of your application within four weeks.
Advanced Placement
Conditions
You may be eligible to apply to an advanced level of the program through direct entry. Please note that applications are considered based on:
- Complete applications: you must show proof that you have completed (or are registered in) all requirements to be considered.
- Competitive entry: if the number of applicants exceeds available seats, BCIT will accept those deemed to have the best opportunity for success.
- Seat availability: confirmation may not be available until approximately one week before the term begins.
Direct entry
If you are new to the program but have completed an equivalent part of it at BCIT or elsewhere and want to apply to an advanced level, you can apply for direct entry to level 3. Note that direct entry is limited and must involve thorough consultation with the Program Head prior to applying.
BCIT accepts complete applications from October 1st* to March 31st*.
*or next business day
Submit the following with your online application:
- Proof of meeting all general entrance requirements
- Course-by-Course Self-Assessment Form [PDF] showing that you have formal, accredited, post-secondary training in a recognized Broadcast program, with courses equivalent to the required courses listed below. Detailed course outlines will be required to determine equivalency.
- Official transcripts of previous education*
*If you have completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you will require a basic evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered.
Completion of the following courses (or equivalents) is required:
| Level 1 | |
|---|---|
| Course | Course Name |
| BCST 1101 | Media Technology Fundamentals 1 |
| BCST 1111 | Media Performance 1 |
| BCST 1113 | Journalism 1 |
| BSCT 1320 | Sound Design 1 |
| BCST 1350 | Policy, Regulation and Ethics in Society 1 |
| COMM 1113 | Business Communication 1 |
| MDIA 2305 | Online Design | Level 2 |
| Course | Course Name |
| BCST 1180 | Introduction to Video Editing |
| BCST 1380 | Script Performance |
| BCST 2209 | Practicum 1 |
| BCST 2211 | Media Performance 2 |
| BSCT 2213 | Journalism 2 |
| BCST 3315 | Documentary Production |
| COMM 2213 | Business Communication 2 |
| ORGB 2325 | Organizational Behaviour |
Ready to submit your application? Apply now.
Direct entry FAQs
- When should I apply?
- When will I be accepted?
- Can I take courses in advance to reduce my course load?
- When will I get my timetable?
- When can I buy my books?
It is recommended that you apply when you have met all of the entrance requirements. All entrance requirements must be met before being considered for entry.
Once your application has been assessed and has been approved for direct entry, a seat must become available in the program you have selected. Seats for level 3 in September are given out starting in June, after first-year students have obtained their final grades and the number of available seats has been determined. Seats will be given out over the course of the summer.
In order to maintain a competitive application, it is recommended that you take no more than two courses per term ahead of time. A maximum of two courses per level are eligible for credit. Note that this will not reduce your full-time program tuition.
Print your timetable one day prior to class start by logging into my.bcit.ca and going to Student Self-Service. You must be registered in your courses in order to access this feature.
It is recommended that you wait until the first week of classes before buying textbooks. Your instructors will tell you which books to buy.
To register for a Part-time Studies course, visit Register for Part-time Courses or contact Student Information and Enrolment Services.
Still have questions? Review the Admissions FAQ or contact Program Advising.
Costs & Supplies
Bring Your Own Device & additional equipment
Students are required to have their own laptop and additional equipment for recording, editing, and storing audio and other media. Please refer to the Bring Your Own Device Specifications [PDF] for requirements.
Laptop costs vary depending on the configuration chosen, but will likely range from approximately $1,000 to $2,000.
Vehicles
Radio Arts & Entertainment students do not need to own a vehicle. However, students must have a valid driver’s license and clean driver’s abstract to drive the Evolution Storytelling Company Destination Toyota Prius, and may need access to a vehicle to complete work necessary for certain individual and group projects.
Tuition fees
Please see the Full-Time Tuition & Fees pages for tuition fee amounts:
Books & supplies
Student spending above and beyond tuition depends largely on individual preferences and practices. The following estimates provide a range of spending:
Level 1: $1,380; Level 2: $331; Level 3: $200; Level 4: $300
(General estimated cost, subject to change)
Financial assistance
Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.
Courses
In the Radio Arts and Entertainment diploma program, you’ll learn about the media industry, basic audio and video production, on-air and online storytelling, and marketing and advertising, with a mix of practical instruction and in-class study. You’ll get invaluable hands-on experience with two practicums and work at the Evolution Podcast Network on SoundCloud, Evolution Video Network on YouTube, and Vancouver’s only Modern Adult Album Alternative/Indie Rock radio station, Evolution 107.9 FM.
Program matrix
| Level 1 (15 weeks) | Credits | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| BCST 1101 | Media Technology Fundamentals 1 | 3.0 | |
| BCST 1111 | Media Performance 1 | 6.0 | |
| BCST 1113 | Journalism 1 | 3.0 | |
| BCST 1320 | Sound Design 1 | 2.0 | |
| BCST 1350 | Policy, Regulation and Ethics in Society 1 | 3.0 | |
| COMM 1113 | Business Communication 1 | 3.0 | |
| MDIA 2305 | Online Design | 4.0 | |
| Level 2 (15 weeks plus five-week practicum) | Credits | ||
| BCST 1180 | Introduction to Video Editing | 3.0 | |
| BCST 1380 | Script Performance | 2.0 | |
| BCST 2209 | Practicum 1 | 7.0 | |
| BCST 2211 | Media Performance 2 | 4.0 | |
| BCST 2213 | Journalism 2 | 3.0 | |
| BCST 3315 | Documentary Production | 2.0 | |
| COMM 2213 | Business Communication 2 | 4.0 | |
| ORGB 2325 | Organizational Behaviour | 2.0 | |
| Level 3 (15 weeks) | Credits | ||
| BCST 1300 | Advertising: Theory and Techniques | 3.0 | |
| BCST 1310 | Marketing Foundations | 2.0 | |
| BCST 2282 | Advanced Video Editing | 3.0 | |
| BCST 3310 | Media Lab 1 | 15.0 | |
| BLAW 3300 | Broadcast Law | 3.0 | |
| Level 4 (15 weeks plus 4-week practicum) | Credits | ||
| BCST 2214 | Music & Media Business | 2.0 | |
| BCST 2335 | Marketing: Sales and Public Relations | 3.0 | |
| BCST 3316 | Career Development | 2.0 | |
| BCST 4340 | Social Media Research | 2.0 | |
| BCST 4409 | Practicum 2 | 7.0 | |
| BCST 4410 | Media Lab 2 | 15.0 | |
| BUSA 1200 | Business Concepts | 3.0 | |
| Total Credits: | 111.0 | ||
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
Program Details
In this program, you’ll train extensively for the jobs available in the growing world of media performance, storytelling, and production. This includes working closely with industry professionals to learn the skills today’s employers are looking for, all to help prepare you for your dream career as an on-air performer, online content creator, sports announcer, podcast host or producer, marketing professional, and more.
Through BCIT’s Radio Arts & Entertainment diploma program, you’ll prepare and deliver programming presented weekly on the Evolution Storytelling Company’s multiple platforms, including FM radio, YouTube, SoundCloud, website, and social media. As part of earning experience in every facet of performance, production, and storytelling, you’ll rotate through various roles, including performing, writing, publishing, shooting, recording, and editing.
Because BCIT’s first goal is to prepare you for a successful career, we regularly update and adapt our course offerings and hours to meet changing industry conditions and demands. Some classes and practicums may take place outside of normal class hours, including evenings and weekends to offer flexible training opportunities for students.
To give you even more current, relevant experience, you’ll participate in a five-week practicum with an industry-related company to learn on the job and develop connections. Students find practicums in communities throughout the province, across the country, and around the world!
Program length
Two years, full-time
The program runs from September to May each year.
Additional program options
Program delivery
In person: This program is delivered on campus.
Program location
Burnaby Campus
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, BC
Graduating & Jobs
The BCIT Radio Arts & Entertainment diploma is offered at one of the most respected business and media schools in Canada—and for you, that means you’ll have the skills, experience, knowledge, and credentials to begin a successful career in this exciting field.
With your diploma, you’re eligible to continue your studies into a communications degree at several institutions, including Royal Roads University in Victoria, BC. We even have an articulation agreement with Murdoch University in Australia!
The Radio Arts & Entertainment diploma also ladders into the BCIT Bachelor of Business Administration.
Some career opportunities in media available to you as a BCIT Radio Arts & Entertainment graduate include:
- News/Sports/Entertainment Anchor
- On-Air Music/Talk Host
- Audio/Video Producer
- Social Media Coordinator
- Marketing Coordinator
- Media Sales Representative
- Play-by-Play Announcer
- News/Sports Reporter
- Technical Producer
- Voice-Over Talent
- Podcast Host/Producer
- Media Relations Coordinator
- Promotions Coordinator
- Ad Writer
Testimonials
“BCIT was a great place for me. I met amazing people and walked away from my two year experience with the skills I needed to work in the broadcast industry. I have great memories of my time spent there, and definitely recommend it to anyone interested in a career in media.”
Tamara Taggart, 30+ year radio and television veteran
“The Radio Arts & Entertainment program taught me all the necessary skills to become a successful broadcaster and gave me the confidence to believe in myself. It shaped me to become very versatile in different areas in media and I am so happy with the decision to go to BCIT. I would highly recommend the Radio Arts & Entertainment program to anyone considering a career in media, broadcast, or communications.”
Simone Grewal, Program Director and Afternoon Host, 104.3 The Breeze
“This Program gave me great building blocks for strong communications skills, such as storytelling, understanding your audience, and pushing my creativity, that I definitely still use today. Those two years, and the great people I shared them with, continue to be important to my career.”
Russel Lolacher, Director of Web and Social Media Services, BC Ministry of Transportation
Graduate employment outcomes
The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2019-2021 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2018-2020 graduates and for Degree 2017-2019 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.
To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
Faculty, Advisors & Staff
The BCIT Radio Arts & Entertainment faculty has prepared students for the media industry longer than any other school in the province. Our enviable track record means you learn from only the most qualified instructors who possess a unique combination of skill sets. These skills have been developed by years of industry experience and as educators.
There are five full-time and one part-time faculty dedicated entirely to the Radio Arts & Entertainment program and each is responsible for specific areas of the curriculum.
The range of experience our faculty brings includes on-air performance, audio and video production, podcasting, news and sports writing and presenting, web and social media content writing and management, and sales, marketing, and advertising.
- Brian Wiebe, Program Head
- Kathryn Stewart, Instructor
- Kevin Ribble, Instructor
- Gord Eno, Instructor
- Adnan Hussein, Instructor
- Todd Hancock, Assistant Instructor
- Martin Strong, Instructor (fill-in)
Advisory committee
- Shushma Datt, CEO, Spice Radio, i.t. Media Broadcasting
- Mike Eggen, Senior Account Executive, Bell Media Vancouver
- Brian Adler, Head of Channel Management and Production, Broadband TV
- Mike Whittingham, Executive Producer, TSN
- Cal Koat, Owner, Calcopyrite Communications Inc.
- Simone Grewal, Program Director and Afternoon Host, 104.3 The Breeze
- Chris Duncombe, Director of Streaming and Podcasting, Corus Entertainment
- Taryn Stephenson, Brand Partnership and Sponsorship, Music Heals Canada
- Pamela Jones, President, L.A. Jones Talent Management
- Erin McKinley, Manager, Communications and Media Relations, Coast Capital Savings
- Steve Pratt, Co-founder, Pacific Content
- Taralynn Reburn, Senior Director, Sales, Canucks Sports and Entertainment
- Stephanie Pound, Communications and Events Coordinator and Senior Communications Advisor, BC Assessment
- Russel Lolacher, Director for Digital Communications (Content, Engagement), BC Ministry of Transportation
- Ross Hawse, Independent Media Consultant
Contact Us
General enquiries
Alisha Gardner
Administrative Assistant
604-432-8385 | agardner15@bcit.ca
Brian Wiebe
Program Head
604-432-8595 | Brian_Wiebe@bcit.ca
Contact a Program Advisor with the BCIT program name in the subject line if you have a question about:
- Program selection and program planning
- Applying for transfer credit and advanced placement
- Job placement and graduate outcomes
- Student life
Questions or comments?
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